North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 143. State Departments, Institutions, and Commissions § 143-323. Functions of Department of Environmental Quality

(1) To study and to sponsor research on all aspects of local government and of relationships between the federal government, the State and local governments in North Carolina.

(2) To collect, collate, analyze, publish, and disseminate information necessary for the effective operation of the Department and useful to local government.

(3) To maintain an inventory of data and information, and to act as a clearinghouse of information and as a referral agency with respect to State, federal, and private services and programs available to local government; and to facilitate local participation in those programs by furnishing information, education, guidance, and technical assistance with respect to those programs.

(4) To assist in coordinating State and federal activities relating to local government.

(5) To assist local governments in the identification and solution of their problems.

(6) To assist local officials in bringing specific governmental problems to the attention of the appropriate State, federal, and private agencies.

(7) To advise and assist local governments with respect to intergovernmental contracts, joint service agreements, regional service arrangements, and other forms of intergovernmental cooperation.

(8) To inform and advise the Governor on the affairs and problems of local government and on the need for the administrative and legislative action with respect to local government.